Articles tagged with Infectious Disease Transmission
New research from MIT found that germicidal UV lights can produce potentially harmful compounds in indoor spaces. The study suggests that the lights should be used with appropriate ventilation to minimize health risks. Researchers emphasize that the new UV lights are not a replacement for ventilation but rather a complement to it.
The US is experiencing an explosive rise in tick-borne diseases, with over 490,000 annual cases fueled by increased white-tailed deer populations and forest regrowth. New vaccines targeting human hosts and animals are being developed to combat this growing health threat.
A new study by Duke University researchers has found endemic malaria in Turkana County, Kenya, with a significant incidence of Plasmodium vivax, a parasite historically rare in sub-Saharan Africa. The presence of invasive mosquito species Anopheles stephensi also poses challenges to the continent's malaria control efforts.
A novel procedure using a refined technique and narrower tube has reduced the risk of transmitting mitochondrial disease during assisted reproduction. The study found that the new protocol resulted in normal development of embryos and healthy offspring, with minimal transfer of maternal mitochondria to the offspring.
Brazilian researchers screened 160 existing drugs and identified six compounds effective against Toxoplasma gondii. Almitrine, a COPD treatment, showed significant reduction in brain parasite load. Further studies are needed to repurpose these drugs for toxoplasmosis treatment.
A pilot study in Catalonia found that self-sampling is a feasible and acceptable method for diagnosing asymptomatic mpox. The study identified 7 positive cases, including 3 asymptomatic individuals, and estimated the prevalence of infection at 6.19%.
Researchers found that using electronic prompts during appointment scheduling for seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines can identify willing participants for HPV and shingles vaccines. Only 30% of those booking for these vaccines were already vaccinated against HPV, presenting a significant opportunity for targeted campaigns.
A recent study conducted at the University of São Paulo's Medical School found that isolating patients with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in emergency departments (ER) for over two days can significantly reduce CRE transmission. The researchers also discovered that the ER structure, including bed layout and hand hygiene...
Researchers have sequenced the genomes of transmissible shellfish cancers, revealing high levels of genomic instability not seen in other cancers. The study focused on the common cockle, a species that belongs to one of the oldest groups of animals on Earth.
Researchers have discovered a new plasmid in epidemic Vibrio cholerae samples that introduces genes encoding resistance to multiple antibiotics. The finding underscores the importance of genomic surveillance and suggests that the strain's stability poses a concerning factor for future outbreaks.
A study by Washington State University researchers found epigenetic alterations associated with elk treponeme-associated hoof disease, suggesting a systemic impact. The findings also suggest that the disease may be heritable, raising concerns about its transmission and susceptibility.
Researchers analyze relationship between agriculture, emergence of new diseases. They propose a holistic approach focusing on broader factors impacting disease transmission.
A new study found that most C. diff infections are caused by characteristics associated with the patient themselves, not hospital transmission. Researchers analyzed fecal samples from over 1,100 ICU patients and discovered only six genomically supported transmissions during a nine-month period.
The American College of Physicians has issued updated rapid, living practice points on treating COVID-19 patients in outpatient settings. The new guidance supports the use of molnupiravir or nirmatrelvir-ritonavir for symptomatic patients with confirmed mild to moderate COVID-19.
Researchers use genomic surveillance to identify distinct sexual networks for syphilis transmission in England, highlighting the presence of drug resistance. The study reveals information beyond standard epidemiological surveillance data, aiding public health strategies to break transmission chains.
A Pittsburgh-based surveillance system detected a drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection linked to artificial tears months before the national public health alert. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of whole genome sequencing-based surveillance in detecting outbreaks and preventing nationwide cases.
A new framework aims to build climate resilience in Europe's health systems by developing policy-relevant indicators and decision-support tools. The framework combines a holistic approach to address the interconnectedness of animals, humans, and the environment.
Researchers are investigating unknown transmission pathways between humans and wildlife, particularly with white-tailed deer, to predict the risk of spillover. The project aims to integrate these pathways into a modeling framework to mitigate zoonotic disease spread.
A new international study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases found that vaccinated individuals had fewer lesions, mucosal disease, and needed less pain medication. Reinfected patients also showed milder symptoms, faster recovery, and lower rates of hospitalization.
RSV virus remains infectious on surfaces for up to seven days, emphasizing the need for regular disinfection. Effective hand sanitizers with at least 30% alcohol content can inactivate the virus.
Researchers found that white-tailed deer are virus reservoirs, promoting ongoing mutation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. At least 30 infections were introduced by humans, and an estimated 23.5% of deer had been infected at one time or another.
This study found a correlation between hospital-onset SARS-CoV-2 infections and community-onset infections, highlighting the importance of ongoing surveillance and prevention measures. The findings suggest that hospitals should be particularly vigilant when community incidence rates are high, in order to reduce in-hospital transmission.
Scientists have identified specific long noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression and life cycle progression of the deadly Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasite. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic strategies against malaria.
A new study found that voluntary collective isolation alone was ineffective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 among the Amazonian Tsimané. The researchers used a computer model and serological testing to confirm their predictions, showing nearly identical infection rates across communities.
Researchers analyzed data from 31 studies and found that cattle face a higher risk of getting tuberculosis from wildlife through indirect interactions. Indirect interaction rates were 154 times higher than direct interaction rates.
A new study found that voluntary collective isolation was unlikely to prevent rapid spread of COVID-19 among the Tsimané, a small-scale Indigenous society in remote Amazonia. The simulation predicted nearly identical rates of infection in real-world data, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and medical resources
A new study reveals that using big data and machine learning can improve antimicrobial resistance surveillance in livestock production. The research found correlations between environmental variables, microbial communities, and antimicrobial resistance, suggesting multiple routes for improving surveillance.
Chikungunya virus has found a way to evade the immune system by hijacking host cells' cytoskeleton, allowing it to spread directly from cell to cell. This discovery could lead to the development of effective vaccines or treatments for this debilitating mosquito-borne disease.
A study by Florida Atlantic University found that nearly all wristbands (95%) are contaminated with harmful bacteria, including E. coli and staphylococcus. The study suggests using metal types like gold and silver, which had little to no bacteria, and recommends regular sanitizing of wristbands, especially after gym activities.
Researchers have created a novel animal model to study the pathogenesis of neurobrucellosis, a severe complication of brucellosis. The model reveals that innate lymphoid cells and interferons play a crucial role in limiting brain damage during Brucella infection.
Research reveals that a healthy gut microbiome can play a role in the acquisition and severity of HIV and EBV infections. The study found that animals colonized with resident microbiota had higher rates of HIV infection and increased viral loads, suggesting that altering the gut microbiota could be a potential therapeutic approach to c...
A recent study of Massachusetts schools found low secondary attack rates for SARS-CoV-2 among school-based contacts. The study highlights the importance of ongoing surveillance efforts to maintain optimal disease prevention strategies.
Researchers at NUS and Imperial College London have discovered a new way bacteria share genes, enabling rapid evolution. Lateral cotransduction enables SaPIs to transfer themselves intact with bacterial DNA, making them potent transducing agents.
A study found that pdm09 influenza A virus has crossed from humans to swine nearly 370 times since 2009, resulting in evolutionary changes and potential for zoonotic transmission. The analysis suggests managing human infection can help prevent pig-to-human transmission.
A new study found that individuals vaccinated with the newer pertussis vaccine show similar immune responses to antigens present and absent from the vaccine, suggesting that asymptomatic infections drive T cell response. This could lead to the spread of the bacteria to vulnerable populations.
Researchers developed a bioinformatic tool that selects parts of proteins to elicit strong immune responses. This approach, grounded in immunological theory, was four times more efficient than current methods, suggesting better vaccine protection against diseases.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has awarded five projects to better understand Post-treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS), which affects 10-20% of Lyme disease patients. The research will explore possible causes of persistent symptoms, including a misguided immune response and ongoing infection.
A study in South African households found no association between frequency/duration of close contact and COVID-19 transmission. Airborne transmission, particularly in poorly ventilated environments, may play a larger role in spreading the virus.
The digitization of Johanna Bonne-Wepster's field notes has filled significant gaps in mosquito research and tropical medicine. The collection contains valuable information on vector-borne diseases and their spread, which can inform current public health issues and future disease modeling.
Research reveals that asymptomatic throat carriage of Streptococcus pyogenes is the primary source of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections in high-risk communities. This discovery challenges previous understanding of GAS transmission and has significant implications for public health approaches, vaccine development, and future research.
Researchers detected Orientia bacteria in chiggers at high frequency in North Carolina recreational parks. The bacterium causes a disease similar to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which can be fatal if left untreated.
A new study reveals that mobile phone data can be skewed towards more accessible populations, leading to misleading predictions and ineffective outbreak responses. Researchers urge acknowledging and measuring bias in all types of data to ensure accurate public health decisions.
A UCLA-led team is tracking mpox outbreaks across the US with a new surveillance project called CRASHED. The research aims to identify cases beyond high-risk groups and determine if mpox remains rare or resurges more broadly.
Researchers found that biting midges responsible for transmitting the virus are active on warmest days throughout the winter, contrary to previous theories. The discovery suggests that bluetongue virus transmission is likely ongoing year-round, with potential economic impacts for cattle farming.
A new study found consistently high TB case rates among incarcerated people, but low detection rates. Nearly half of TB cases were not detected, highlighting the need for increased efforts to reduce TB spread in prisons.
A new species of mosquito, Culex modestus, has been discovered in Finland, adding to the country's mosquito species count. The discovery is an important addition to the understanding of mosquitoes and their potential pathogens, with no reported cases of West Nile virus transmission in humans or horses.
A study published in Blood reveals that SARS-CoV-2 prefers to infect blood group A cells, increasing the risk of infection. The Omicron strain of the virus also shows a stronger preference for A cells.
Researchers aim to identify best practices for increasing viral suppression in low-income populations with HIV. They will examine state AIDS Drug Assistance Programs to understand disparities in care and outcomes.
Researchers have identified anti-malarial properties in cancer drugs, offering a potential solution to the growing crisis of drug-resistant malaria. The study found that certain protein kinase inhibitors exhibited strong anti-malarial effects, highlighting a new approach to accelerating drug discovery.
A new study found that wild and feral cats in high-human population density areas release more Toxoplasma gondii parasites. Temperature fluctuations also played a role in parasite shedding from domestic and wild cats. The findings suggest managing feral cat populations could reduce toxoplasmosis transmission risk.
Researchers have identified a gene in the placenta that produces a defense mechanism against viral infections, protecting fetuses during pregnancy. This discovery could lead to the development of new anti-viral treatments.
Researchers at the University of Bristol found that viruses lose their infectivity quicker in cleaner air, with opening a window reducing acid content and speeding up death. The study provides valuable insights into mitigating risk through gas composition manipulation.
Researchers at UNIGE have identified a new type of molecular sensor that enables the malaria parasite to infect human cells or mosquitoes at just the right moment. By understanding how this sensor works, scientists can potentially scramble its signals to disorientate the parasite and block its multiplication and transmission.
A case of echovirus 11-induced hepatitis in Italian male twins has been reported, showing a close genetic relation to strains found in France among neonates. The study highlights the importance of rapid recognition and timely treatment to ensure survival, and suggests potential host genetic predisposition in male and twin categories.
Scientists at UCSF and NIBSC have developed two new oral polio vaccines with genetically engineered weakened poliovirus to reduce reversion to dangerous forms. These vaccines aim to boost the World Health Organization's efforts to eradicate polio, which has persisted despite successful international vaccination campaigns.
Defective myelin promotes disease-related changes in Alzheimer's by accelerating amyloid plaque deposition and overwhelming immune cells. Slowing down age-related myelin damage could lead to new therapies and prevent or slow down the disease.
New research finds masturbation serves an adaptive function in primates, increasing reproductive success and aiding pathogen avoidance. The study, based on nearly 400 sources, reveals masturbation's evolutionary history and its co-evolution with multi-male mating systems.
A supervised hospital walking program has been shown to reduce nursing facility admissions for older adults by lowering the proportion of patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities from 13% to 8%. However, low participation rates and limited impact on length of stay or inpatient falls were noted.
Researchers used smart thermometers to measure within-household transmission and found a significant role for children in spreading viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study suggests that school attendance may also contribute to increased transmission rates.
A new study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that cats are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 and can spread the virus to other cats and their environment. The infected cats' environments were also found to be infectious, but this infectiousness decays rapidly.